Gatchalian to DOTr: Ease commuters' woes ahead of expected exodus during the long holiday period
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday, October 27 urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to guarantee that the traveling public will have a safe and hassle-free travel experience during the extended holiday period.
Gatchalian said the DOTr ought to make sure that passengers using air, land, or water transport systems would not be bothered by any unfortunate circumstances given the expected exodus of people from Metro Manila for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE), All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The senator said it is necessary for the DOTr to establish seamless coordination with major port authorities and bus terminals, along with the allocation of additional personnel to provide ample assistance to passengers and motorists.
“This concerted effort aims to swiftly address and resolve any road and transport-related issues that may arise,” said Gatchalian.
The senator pointed out that compared to previous ‘Undas’ seasons, more Filipinos are expected to travel to their respective provinces or tourist spots, including foreign destinations, to take advantage of the extended holiday break to participate in the upcoming BSKE.
When it comes to air travel, the lawmaker stressed it is imperative to implement strict measures to prevent any recurrence of a bomb explosion, including robust security protocols, advanced detection technologies, and enhanced safety for both passengers and airport personnel.
Similar measures, he said, should also be adopted in maritime transport systems to enhance the safety and security of passengers riding boats and vessels.
Meanwhile, Gatchalian said the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) should address the usual vehicular bottlenecks that travelers experience during peak seasons, particularly at choke points along major toll roads, such as the South Luzon Expressway and North Luzon Expressway.
Gatchalian also encouraged toll road users to choose the Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) system for toll payment and pre-load their accounts for a smoother and more convenient travel experience.